WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE HOME EUTHANASIA?
 At home euthanasia offers a comforting and calming option to the more clinical setting of a hospital.  Often the trip to the office can be stressful or uncomfortable for an elderly pet. It will be more peaceful for your pet to pass away quietly on their favorite pillow, surrounded by the sounds and smells of home.  In your own home, you also have the privacy to fully grieve your loss without interruptions or time constraints. With the  flexible scheduling of evenings and weekends, you may be able to include additional family or friends, or arrange for a ceremony. You can choose a special spot indoors or outdoors, wherever you and your pet will be most comfortable.

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN IT IS THE RIGHT TIME?
It is often very difficult for owners to be able to decide when it is the “right” time for this painful decision.  Feelings of discomfort about having to make such a choice, guilt about whether it is too soon, or too late ,and awareness of the loss to come can make this a very emotional and confusing time.  Because you know your pet best though, you are often the best  judge of when your pet’s quality of life has changed, when there are more bad days than good.  I am here to support and advise you with your decisions, using both my experience as a veterinarian and as a pet owner who has also been faced with these painful choices.  My goal is to give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are making the best possible choices at the best possible time for your beloved pet.Quality of Life Scale, Dr. Alice Villalobos.

WHAT WILL THE VISIT BE LIKE?  
After meeting and settling in with you and your pet, I will briefly walk you through the procedure.   We will take care of the paperwork and then, when everyone is ready, we will proceed.  I will work at whatever pace you are comfortable with to ensure that you have the most peaceful and relaxed experience.  Once your pet has passed, I will step out to give you as much time as you need  to say your final goodbyes.   If you have chosen cremation, I will  then transport your pet to Guardian Animal Aftercare.   If you are scheduling in the middle of the day please allow yourself at least an hour.


               


WHAT IF I CHANGE MY MIND? 
We realize that a pet’s health may vary from day to day and we certainly love to hear that a pet has been enjoying a good spell.  Sometimes clients are having doubts about whether it is the right time, or are just not feeling ready to make such a momentous decision.    Please call us if your plans need to be changed – we're here to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

HOW WILL MY PET RESPOND, WHAT WILL THEY FEEL?
Each patient will be given an initial sedative.  This allows them to relax, and will ease any pain or discomfort they may have been feeling.  Once they are in a deep and gentle sleep, and you are ready, we will proceed with the euthanasia. The euthanasia injection is given into the bloodstream - it is painless and works quickly. You will probably only notice your pet relax, or sigh, as they pass peacefully in your arms.



SHOULD CHILDREN BE PRESENT?
I am comfortable with children being present.  They may want to stay for the entire time or may come in to say their goodbyes, then leave for the actual euthanasia itself.  The passing of a pet is often the first experience children have with death and there are likely to be many questions.  I have been through the loss of several beloved  family pets with my own children and can share my own insights if you wish. I am also comfortable with other pets being present. Children and Pet Loss.